Black Grave, Burial mound in Chernihiv, Ukraine.

The Black Grave is a burial mound over 10 metres high with a circumference of 170 metres, the largest kurgan in Chernihiv. Its rounded earthen mound rises behind a paved area, topped by a plain light-grey stone marker. A tall dark-grey stone stele with a carved downward sword, interlace ornament and the dates 1872 and 1873 stands nearby.

Constructed in the late 10th century during the Kievan Rus period, the mound contains the cremated remains of two Norse warriors, likely father and son, discovered during excavations in 1872-1873.

The site reflects the fusion of local Slavic traditions with Norse culture, containing artifacts including Thor idols, decorated horns with mythical animals, and ceremonial weapons that demonstrate cross-cultural exchanges.

Located on Knyazya Chornoho Street near Chernihiv city center, the site is part of the National Architecture-Historical Reserve and requires prior permission for detailed archaeological access.

Archaeological excavations revealed slave offerings and sacrificial animals buried alongside the warriors, indicating elaborate funeral ceremonies that emphasized the high social status of the interred individuals.